California Dreamin'

HELLLOOO (out there echo..echo..cricket..)!!!

2010-08-29T10:14:00.000-07:00

Once again, OK, OK its been FOREVER...so not to make excuses why I haven't blogged but there is too much going on so I forget to blog. We have been a busy family lately and it helps the weeks go by fast, but it very exhausting sometimes. Ive been working still, and I have been doing more and more pictures. I cant explain how happy I am when I take pictures, it is something I love, and it doesn't feel like work. (that is the best part of it all) It truly is my passion. But along with working, pictures, trying to spend as much time possible with Noah before he starts school, editing pictures, 365 project, keeping up a household, and school starting Monday for me,and of course big brother (show) I really haven't been doing anything other than THAT!!! not much at all.

The countdown is on.....With Noah starting school on the 7Th, I have this aching sadness knowing that my baby is growing up, but I have come to the conclusion, that I need to think in the present and not worry about the future. I am beyond thrilled for that Tuesday and believe me, he is going to love it. He talks about it daily, so we are all excited. I'm just trying to spend as much quality time with him as I can, and celebrate the special moments we experienced these past 4 years. I love listening to how much he has grown up and I look forward to him growing up and seeing how much he progressing just in preschool. I have been so lucky to be able to stay home with Noah until now. So it really has been a great opportunity for me and him to have that time together. I will miss our time together. Its definitely a bitter sweet moment. and I will cry and be a ball of mush on the 7Th.

In other news, business has been going really well. Its something I enjoy doing and something I look forward to. I dream about how mu business could be and all the things I can do with it, to help it grow into something bigger than I can imagine. I would love to have a home studio, so hopefully in a month or so, I will be able to make that possible. I also thought how awesome would it be to be a photo journalist. (for what/; not sure.) but isn't that a type of job?

Some funny conversations from Noah:

Last night he was sitting down to eat dinner (we had pizza plus and football on T.V.)

and he proceeds to say with his arms up in the air: "ahhhh!!! this is the life".. (how funny is that, Marcus and I just cracked up laughing)

The other day we were sitting up at the counter eating dinner and Noah was just talking and talking, so I looked over at what he was saying and he had his hand up to his ear and told me: "don't worry mom, I'm just talking to my dinosaur dudes."

Noah has become such a big helper around the house. He loves to help me put away laundry, and when I'm cooking he loves to help. I always try to let him get involved in whatever were cooking. He loves to make his own sandwiches, and peel his own fruit. He has become such a big boy. I finally let him play a game on the computer for the first time. He really enjoyed it, and it was hilarious watching him try to figure the mouse out.

Lately he has really been into superheros, He loves the Hulk, and the boys always reenact scenes from the movie. and of course Noah is the Hulk and Marcus is the Abomination.

Noah finally got a haircut..we prepared him for a couple days before hand, and he was all about it, he said that he wanted spiky hair like his dudes. (he calls older kids dudes.) So a faux hawk was the deal. We went to an awesome barber shop that is the ultimate guys place, he was so comfortable and they made him feel at home. He wasn't shy and he was talking to the guys and had a great time, he even got a certificate and picture with Gary. He did such a great job, when he noticed his spiky hair while he was sitting in the chair, he got the biggest grin on his face it was such a priceless moment.

Well enough for now, not such an update with everyday life that has been going on, but just a glimpse into a little of everything.

In the Early Rush of morning....

2010-08-03T17:42:00.001-07:00

In the midst of everything going on, in the back of my head all I can think about is how happy/sad I am my little guy is going to start school. It strange how something so big is going to change our lives. I also have to tell myself that every parent goes through this feeling (at least I hope they do) From here on out, my baby will be getting up everyday for school, for the next 12 years. OMG!!!!! (of course except summer) But how do I explain to him at such a young age that he has to go everyday. Its his job to learn and get a great education. I cant wait to see his little face going to school. He is growing up way to much. The other day I was cleaning, and this song came on and it brought tears to my eyes. Just the words are so emotional. I don't think I'm ready for my little man to be growing up. I look forward to his future and all the fun things to come, but I'm gonna miss him at home with me everyday. He is my little guy. He worries about me just like I worry about him. I think I'm going to be the one with separation anxiety. This is such a pivotal moment in his life. We are so excited for him to get into school, and cant wait for September. I have been taking more time to cherish the little things with him, I'm trying to just watch him more, and try to capture those special moments that I can remember forever. He truly is an amazing kid, and I'm going to miss those hours each day with him. But I understand that I cant be selfish and this is definitely what he needs, and he is super excited about school. I am just as excited for him to watch him grow, and develop into this little boy. I'm excited to see him make friends, and see the choices he starts to make on his own. What a big step he is going to take. So with the many rush of mornings I have ahead of me, I want to share this emotional and touching lyrics to the song, that is very touching to me right now.

In the early rush of morning,
Trying to get the kids to school:
One's hanging on my shirt-tail,
Another's locked up in her room.
And I'm yelling up the stairs:
"Stop worrying 'bout your hair, you look fine."

Then they're fightin' in the backseat,
And I'm playing referee.
Now someone's gotta go,
The moment that we leave.
And everybody's late,
I swear that I can't wait till they grow up.

Then they do, and that's how it is.
It's just quiet in the mornin',
Can't believe how much you miss,
All they do and all they did.
You want all the dreams they dreamed of to come true:
Then they do.

Now the youngest is starting college,
She'll be leavin' in the Fall.
And Brianna's latest boyfriend,
Called to ask if we could talk.
And I got the impression,
That he's about to pop the question any day.

I look over at their pictures,
Sittin' in their frames.
I see them as babies:
I guess that'll never change.
You pray all their lives,
That someday they will find happiness.

Then they do, and that's how it is.
It's just quiet in the mornin',
Can't believe how much you miss,
All they do and all they did.
You want all the dreams they dreamed of to come true:
Then they do.

No more Monday PTA's,
No carpools, or soccer games.
Your work is done.
Now you've got time that's all your own.
You've been waitin' for so long,
For those days to come.

Then they do, and that's how it is.
It's just quiet in the mornin',
Can't believe how much you miss,
All they do and all they did.
You want all the dreams they dreamed of to come true:
Then they do.

Ah, then they do.

Project 365

2010-08-02T23:13:00.000-07:00

My perfect photo session.

2010-08-02T21:31:00.000-07:00

I finally got my OWN camera and I have gone Head over heals with it. The first photo session I did was with my favorite little kid. My favorite little person of the world. My son Noah. I'm not sure if he is use to me always taking pictures, but he knows exactly what to do when its time to take pictures. It cracks me up. But I had a great time taking his pictures, and I just love this little kid with ever once of being in my body. I hope one day when he gets older he will be able to share these pictures with his family one day.

up, up, up..

2010-07-31T12:40:00.000-07:00

So I'm trying to get my website for my photography up and running. and trying to get my business off the ground. I am a little apprehensive about doing a photography so called "BUSINESS" I love taking photos and I love editing them, but one thing I lack is the confidence in knowing that I at least take decent pictures. But the one thing I'm told is to have confidence in your work. So I'm trying to come to that conclusion. I know that there is endless amounts of education and experience that goes into being a photographer, but I think there is always room to grow and learn in any field. So hopefully one day I can have my own studio I have dreams about how it could be and how my studio would look. I also dream about the faces of the clients when they see their pictures. That is the best part. I have slowly been collecting props and recently got a new camera. I'm thinking about having a home studio and turning my sun room into the office/studio, I can picture it now. So many hopes and dreams. Hopefully I can get my website up and running soon. I looked into it and there is a great company I found, but There are 10 mill on different things I didn't know about like you have to have a domain name, you have to buy the website and then you also have to pay for the hosting. i sweat its like get this go there get this blah blah blah. But one day soon, it will be live on the Internet. SO for now I am just thinking about the future and what I can make of all this. I have started my marketing stuff like my logo business cards things like that. Hopefully it all comes together. and i know it will just take some time.

Thank you iPhone.

2010-07-05T17:41:00.000-07:00

Finally. I figured out how to blog from my iPhone.

Our laptop battery died and it won't even turn on with it being plugged in. Annoying much. We have a desktop but I hate sitting at the desk
and using it. Oh the little things in life that are bothersome. Hahahhaha.

We had a great 4Th of July. Marcus grandma was down from Reno. We haven't seen her since Noah was 2 months old.
It was a great trip but one thing that I will always remember about that trip should have been the time spent with family and the cherished
memories we made. But my memory of that trip was Noah slept through the night for the first time. And as a new mom that was so exciting.

I have pictures to share of Noah with his great grandma. But i will share when my laptop gets up and running.

We BBQ for the fourth and
just enjoyed a relaxing day at home full if swimming and fireworks. This was the first year I think Noah wasn't scared of the fireworks. So that made it all worth it. But I must say fireworks are such a rip off.

Saturday night we had a girls night and went to see eclipse. It was better then the other two I think. But I am still a firm believer that the books were way better then the movies. The movies are a little theatrical and crazy. At points in the movie we were laughing out loud because it was so ridiculous. Haahhaha but it was nice to get together
for dinner with family.

Big brother starts in 3 days. I can't tell you how beyond excited I am. It's the most addicting show. And I enjoy watching it because Marcus likes it too. And it's on 3 days a week. I have a great friend who is obsessed right along with me so we always text back and forth about the show. Oh the little things that excite me.

Well it's off to amke dinner. And I must say I LOVE my phone. Thank you iPhone.

Whooooo are YOooouuU!!!

2010-06-28T15:45:00.000-07:00

I'm sure everyone has seen Alice in Wonderland.. and the caterpillar Absalom's famous words...WHOOO ARE YOOOUU!!! ok that may not have any relations to this post but I have been thinking for awhile.. how do you want people to define you.. ya we all define ourselves and create our own identity. But how do others portray you. Are you the person you want to be, are you the person you want others to see you as. I recently had someone tell me that I have a good heart and an a genuine great person. It made me reflect on myself and really ask myself am I really that kind of person. Sometimes when you talk to people you really know, you understand them you see how they are. You know if they like to use people, or if they are putting on an act.

I truly want to be the person who is nice, kind and has a big heart. I want to be a friendly person and someone who is just all around a nice person. of course there are things that I would love to change and Ive been working on it. (trying at least) like gossiping.. I really wish i could care less about people and not care but i love to hear gossip, even about celebrities.. lol I check gossip websites daily.. ugg I really wish I could change that one thing about me. It could really turn into a bad situation. So I am trying to get better with that. But all around I would just love to be a kind friendly person who is there to listen and there to help out family and friends. (but not taken advantage of) I think I have a good sense of reading people. If they are good or bad. I want to also be the type of parent who is always there for their kids, and to always be there to talk to them. I want to be the parent that our kids friends fill comfortable about coming over, and just being around us.

So I'm not sure if its just me or not, does anyone else everything about who you are or how people see you. Not that I care what others think of me, I just want to be an all around good person for myself and my sanity.

So WHOOOOOO ARE YOOOOUUUU!!!

Sunday..oh Sunday!!!!

2010-06-27T09:47:00.000-07:00

The other day, Noah called Marcus into the bathroom, and this is what he stumbled upon.. What a silly kid. and the magazine he was reading was my Ballard design catalog. What a funny kid. He must of been picking out stuff for the house. lol and i guess its that time to put his books in there.

So its Sunday. what a great day filled with sunshine and faith. With everything going on we haven't been going to church lately and are looking for a church closer to home. I feel like everyday I get a thought about church and faith and how I have missed going. Hopefully we can find a great church. Somehow when your life is crazy and things are stressful you stop going to church but I think it should be the other way around, that is the times when you need Him the most. Almost everyday I get a thought in my head that I need that faith in my daily life. I think I need to take more time maybe early in the morning or late at night to read my Bible or just think about my faith. Sometimes life gets crazy and that becomes the first thing you forget about. and unfortunately that has happened to us. But within time and the fact that I haven't forgotten will eventually get us back on track.

Finally

2010-06-26T08:17:00.000-07:00

Finally a weekend that we can just do nothing.. after today.. hahah there is always something going on or we have things to do. Sometimes it is just so nice to know that you have no where to be, no place to go. I have to work today but after a few hours I will be home and I cant wait.. I'm already looking forward to being home and I haven't even left yet. The one thing that I look forward to the most in my life is spending time with my family. Some people cant wait to get alone time, or a break from their kids. But I love spending time with my family, and never feel like I need a break. I get sad and miss my Noah even if he is gone for an hour. Maybe this weekend we will be spontaneous and go on a road trip or something. I love just waking up and going places. Well since I procrastinated and kept setting off the snooze on my alarm its time for me to head out, and maybe get a Starbucks.. mmm.. .Hope everyone enjoys their day. And I am looking forward to this weekend.

ciao

HOLA!!!!

2010-06-24T23:35:00.000-07:00

LIFE!!!. has taken me away from my blog, so I wanted to upload my 365 and share what has been going on in our always busy never enough time, daily life. We are so glad that summer is here, and we are enjoying a lot of time outside and in the water. One of my dearest friends back from 8Th grade came down to visit. They live in Texas now. It was the 2ND time I met her daughter Daisy. She is such a doll and her and Noah played great together. It was so nice to get together with Sarah and her husband. I wish nothing but the best for her and her families future. Her and her Husband are in the Army. So thank you for serving our country. I wish I would of told them that when they were here. I also got to take some family portraits for her while they were down. and they turned out fantastic. Such a beautiful family.

My FAVORITE..

Other things that have been going on is My baby turned 4..and I must say its def the best age so far. He is the most hilarious 4 year old I know. Lately I have to barter and make deals with him to do stuff.

Me: Noah you need to pick up your cars

Noah: But Mom, (he's wining)

Me: No Noah you made the mess you need to pick up your cars please

Noah: But I cant my hands are too small.

Me: OK Noah just pick up 5 cars

Noah; I cant mom

Me: OK just 1 car then

Noah: OK ONE.. and then he picks them all up. lol

Right now as I'm writing this I am missing part of my heart. Marcus is at work, and Noah stayed the night at his papas house. :( I hate being home alone.. and I miss my boys like crazy. I don't know what life would be like without my boys. Its past midnight and I cant sleep.

Life is kinda on the unknown path right now, but hopefully it will get back to the stability we need. We are back in Ripon, which is what we wanted. We really prefer Ripon schools over Stockton or linden areas. Hopefully Noah will get into preschool here.

School for me is going good/O.K. I have three more classes to take until I can apply for the nursing program, and of course I was only able to get into one class for the fall semester. So uggg....for full classes.

Noah lately has been really into movies. not cartoons, but movies. His favorite is Alice in Wonderland and the new Werewolf movie. SCARY... and gory. but he loves it. When my dad was over and they were watching it, my dad was saying GROSS..EWWW and Noah covered my dads eyes.. how funny is that.

Well I'm sure there are tons of other details going on in our lives but my brain is mush now that its 1230.

chaio

WEek 16

2010-05-02T10:10:00.000-07:00

I just cant explain how excited I still am about this project 16 weeks later. It really opens your eyes as a parent to push you to capture all those special moments. The little moments you sometimes wish you captured, but now getting into the habit of always carrying your camera with you or the camera on your phone is almost perfect too. I have a friend who is doing the 365 project as well, with her new born. and I just think if you get into digital scrapbook, it is the greatest treasure ever. Its almost better than a baby book. I wish someone could pay me to do their digital scrap booking for them. I would love that side job. hahahaha.. My favorite thing about this project is looking back at the past weeks, its a great memory tool also. I just cant rave enough about this thing. It is probably one of the best things I have done for Noah. I cant wait (i prefer to keep him little for now.) for Noah to look at this book. I can just imagine when he is like 16 years old sitting with all his buddies and looking at this and laughing at all the crazy silly things he did when he was younger. Or maybe sitting with his first girlfriend and laughing at the pictures. I'm so excited to see all the spring showing up in our pictures and the sun shining in the background. We love spring time.

Week 15

2010-04-27T19:08:00.001-07:00

Welcome to week 15, a little late but here it is. It has been a hectic couple weeks. Marcus has been working like crazy and we only get one day a week to really spend family time together. So with our hectic busy schedules, we have been trying to spend as much time as we can all together. When you generally have one day together as a family you def tend to cherish the little things, like just staying home and enjoying each others company. Other than that we have been just spending as much time as we can outside and enjoying this great spring weather. Noah is loving it also. We are getting ready and planning Noahs birthday party. Can you believe our little guy will be 4. It boggles my mind.

I love Spring

2010-04-17T10:41:00.000-07:00

Welcome to week 14..

it is starting to look like spring around here. and We love it. A lot more time outside and enjoying the sun shine and the cool weather. I love that its not hot and not cold. (pge bill is def lower this time of year).

We have been planting a lot of flowers and Noah even started his own little flower garden. He does it all by himself too. The plants may be falling over by the time he gets them in the ground, but that's OK, he loves it and that's all that matters. I planted some hydrangeas. I just love those flowers. and I planted them in a circle and put the bird bath in the middle. It is so cute, and I cant wait till they start to bloom. We are also working on the back yard, we used a rototiller for the dirt and leveled it out, and today we are going to plant some grass seed.(lets hope it works) Hopefully it will be done for Noah's birthday, and we can hangout in the backyard. I want to get outside lights to string back and fourth in the backyard, I think it will look so cute. Well that's about all that's been going on over here. Just a lot of playing outside and enjoying the sunshine.

lessons of life...

2010-04-13T21:31:00.000-07:00

Notes to Noah

Choose your Friends Carefully.

We are responsible for the decisions we make in our lives. Life offers us a variety of choices, and it is up to us whether we choose the good ones or the bad. It is very important to pick the right people to surround us and we can not stress enough to you the importance of choosing your friends carefully.We all need friends. But we also need the right kind of friends. Not just anyone will do."Bad company corrupts good character." Bad friends lead to bad character. But the opposite is also true: Good friends lead to good character. If you have the right kind of friends, you will become a better person, a person of wisdom. But if you have the wrong kind of friends, it will cause your ruin and destruction.

We hope as you are growing into a young man, and are at the point of making your own responsible choices, We only wish you will take a hard look at your friends, If your friends are leading you to wreck your life you need to get other friends, always remember "Bad company corrupts good character."

Never let others bring you down, always surround yourself with others that are supportive and want nothing but the best for your well being.

A friend is one of the nicest things you can have, and one of the best things you can be. ~Douglas Pagels

Week 13 I think...

2010-04-13T21:29:00.000-07:00

Notes to Noah #3

2010-04-05T18:00:00.000-07:00

Dear Noah,

"Lessons of Life"

NEVER GIVE UP... always strive for what you want and never give up or settle for less. You deserve the world. As long as you work hard and continue to fight for what you want in life you can have it all. Never give up!!!Don't give up trying to find your way. But do remember that sometimes it takes bending to avoid breaking, but always remember Never Give up!!!

I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." Matthew 17:20

not sure what week im on...

2010-04-02T12:58:00.001-07:00

So I think im mixed up on my weeks, but who's keeping track anyways, right?.. as long as I have a picture from every day. Im excited that March is over, and now were getting into the easter spirit and the start of spring.. (not excited that summer is creaping up on us..cant it be spring all year long!!!)

week 12

2010-03-25T22:43:00.000-07:00

Notes to Noah #2

2010-03-24T21:03:00.000-07:00

Notes to Noah #2

Dear Noah,

This year your Dad and I will be together for 10 years. YES ten years. Longer than most marriages now days. The ratio of marriages to divorces is 2 to 1. Although we are not married right now Your dad is still my spouse and my rock. We have been through so much this past decade and there are many things that we are so happy for and one thing is that YOU came into our life. You are our world. There are no words that can explain what it does to a person when they have a child. There are a few things in your life that I want you to know about your future in relationships and love. I want nothing more than for you to find true love and to experience agape. It is something to look forward to and something that your dad and I hope you can experience in your lifetime. There is a sweet song that I just absolutely love and cry over every time I hear it. It makes me think that it is an anthem song for your dad and I 58 years from now. Here are some words from the song that I want you to use in your future relationships with your spouse. And always remember Agape.

be a best friend
tell the truth
over use i love you
go to work
do your best
don't out smart your common sense
never let your prayin knees get lazy
and love like crazy
-love like crazy by Lee Brice

Notes to Noah..

2010-03-22T20:51:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be nice to start doing a post called Notes to Noah, and basically its just a letter to my son, from me or (Marcus) on anything I'm feeling that day or thoughts I have for him, or Life lessons that I think he should know, and that I want him to learn as he grows up. I imagine him as a grown adult looking through a box and finding these notes to him from his parents. And something that he could look back on 25 years from now and see how much his parents loved him, or manners he still has that we instilled in him as a young boy. Maybe its something his wife will find and share with their children in the future. Its just a little something to share our love for him and with such a fast paced world we live in, it will be nice to just take the time and jot down important things that I would want Noah to live with for the rest of his life.

So here is to the first Notes to Noah...

Noah,

As you grow up to a young boy and into a young man, there is one valuable life lesson that you should always carry with you and that is to stay humble. No matter how far you go in life or where this world takes you, always continue to be humble. I wish I could pass my years of life experience to you so that you have no mistakes in life, but that isn't feasible or right. I think it is important to let you fall or make mistakes, I just hope that with your future of ups and downs always know that we are there for you no matter what. I just hope that you stay well mannered and humble.

I think it is important to always greet your family with a good morning and a good night. As your parents we will continue to show you love morning and night, no matter how chaotic life gets. And to know that first thing in the morning or last thing at night you hear a great gesture of kindness from your family, it can fill your heart with so much ease and happiness. When you have a spouse and children one day I hope that you will continue to tell your family good morning and good night.. Its a small gesture, but its shows that you have a Big heart, and gives them a little piece of you every day.

When you have a visitor in your house, I hope that you would invite your visitor in and offer them something to drink . It is a little gesture but it also shows that you are always thinking of others.

When you go into an elevator and you stand by the buttons, always ask others what floor they need. That is a very small gesture, but it displays to strangers that you are open to help others and opens your heart for 30 seconds to people who don't even know you. It may be a small gesture to others, but It adds a small smile to your heart. For that 30 second elevator ride, those in there with you will not think that you are a bad person or judge you, but they will think you are a person who is nice to strangers, and it actively engages the others by taking the first step and it will build and create loving kindness in your heart.

Its the thought that counts, i9ni todays world this happens far too many times, but I would never ever want you to grow up feeling this way. I find it embarrassing to the parents when a child opens a gift from a guest at the party and they openly express that they are not happy with their gift. Sometimes it may be because the child is too young, to understand, but I want you to grow up knowing that it is the thought that counts. You should feel very appreciative that guests have came to your party, and it is never about the presents. There are many children out there who have no toys, so you should feel lucky to have family and friends that want to give you a gift, and you should always show your gratitude to those who come to share that time with you. It will open your soul to the real reason why we celebrate a day all about you. There are many people who love you, and that is the most important! so whom ever offers you gifts, you should always show your gratitude to them, its not the gift that is most important, its the thought that counts.

“A person can achieve everything by being simple and humble.

On this day..

2010-03-18T15:25:00.000-07:00

On facebook, I get this daily message from GOD app... although it may be a little silly, I still find it interesting.

Here is what my message said for today,

On this day, God wants you to know...
... that gratitude is good. The more you are thankful for, the more you will have to be thankful for. God responds to a grateful heart with joy.

and it made me think and make a mental list in my head on what I am thankful for....

so today I am thankful for...

Noah
Marcus
jobs
our home
our family
our friends
my patience
being a mom
having food on our table.
our relationship between Marcus and I
the ability to be very understanding
being an optimistic person

There are Way more things to be thankful for but today these are the things that come to my mind.

What do you blog about..

2010-03-17T18:59:00.000-07:00

I'm always curious on what other people blog about.. and for some reason, I can never come up with creative things to say or random stuff to write about. Is it because my life is boring? or my life is too busy? I doubt its neither is the reason, but it definitely should be exciting since I have a three year old (right)..It is definitely never boring that's for sure. But what should I write about!!!!!

A little Humor maybe...

While we were driving the other day, Noah was pointing with his middle finger, and I told him, Don't use that finger, that's the bad finger and he told me " No, mama that's a Happy Finger." all I could do was look at Marcus and try really hard not to laugh out loud. (you know when kids see you laugh it only eggs them on to do it more)...

A little excitement Maybe...

If we ever decide when to have a wedding, This is what I dream about.. simple..

A little Bitter sweet maybe...

This little guy right here will be 4 years old in 2 months.. Oh my goodness. Honestly.. you always hear they grow up so fast, take it one day at a time.. and I am trying everyday to cherish all the little moments with my little guy.

A little emotional maybe....

I love this song...and I find it perfect.

Week 11

2010-03-16T14:34:00.000-07:00

Week eleven was filled with lots of sunshine and fresh air. It has been so nice, and we spent a lot of time outside. We even went San Francisco on Saturday and went to the zoo. We had fun, although Noah wouldn't stay at one exhibit for longer than 2 min. I think he was just so excited to go see all the animals. He was riding in the car and was pointing with his middle finger... and I told him, don't use that finger, that's the bad finger, and he told me no mom its the happy finger. All i could do was look at Marcus and try really hard not to laugh. Children really do say the darnedest things.

My Super Special Subject ..

2010-03-10T20:57:00.000-08:00

To take photos of, (obviously) My Little guy. It was about time I took some special pictures of him rather than everyday pictures. Something to update my frames in the house. He was so precious, and is quite funny when I take pictures of him. He actually knows exactly what to do. Even though he has adapted to this fake cheesy smile. So I try to make him laugh that way I can get a natural smile or laugh..We also had a major fall when I was carrying him through the mud and we fell, and got muddy and wet from the grass. its funny to think about now. but it hurt at the time.

Sweet 16 Photo Shoot

2010-03-09T21:07:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure of shooting for Marcus niece Ashlynn. She just turned 16. We originally were going to do some cheer leading shots, but that is re arranged for next Friday. So we took some other shots at the high school, and in her orchard right across the street. Let me tell you. teenage girls are probably the easiest to shoot. She knew exactly what to do and was so simple to take pictures of. I thought they actually turned out pretty good, and I am actually pretty hard on myself when it comes to my photography.

week 10

2010-03-09T21:00:00.000-08:00

Going on week 10, I think im loosing my creative mojo. It took me an hour to make this page. I am having a hard time coming up with creative ideas. and the overall look.. But eveentually it came out alright

Week 9..and March Maddness..

2010-03-04T19:58:00.000-08:00

I cant believe it is March already... CRAZY.. Here is my last week of february layout, and the begining of March. I love february.. the month of love...

I came across a new word yesterday that I never heard before. and it simply changed a part of me and opened my heart so much more. It also opened my eyes to so much more. The word was Agápe.. basically the only way love can last a lifetime is if its unonditional. The truth is this: love is not determined by the one being loved but rather by the one choosing to love. Agápe love is selfless and unconditional. Agápe love is " in sickness and health," for richer or poorer, for better or worse. Its the only kind of love that is true love. Isnt that beautiful.. I think I just fell in love with that..maybe I should get it tattoo'd on me.

week 8

2010-02-25T14:40:00.000-08:00

What I've been reading lately.

2010-02-22T15:50:00.001-08:00

I've been reading lately, and I've been a kick of reading a book before I see a movie. I have come to the conclusion that books are always way better then a movie. I'm not sure if its because you are left up to use your own imagination or what. But I always seem to be disappointed when I watch movies. For example: TWILIGHT.. I laugh at the movies when I watch them.. because sometimes it seems so crazy.. But I fell in love with the books. But some other books that I have been reading lately are:

I must say my favorite was Dear John. It was definitely an easy read, and a little bit of a young love story, but it was written very well, and I loved the over all story. I think Im going to look into more Nicholas Sparks books to read.

Week 7

2010-02-16T21:46:00.000-08:00

Can you believe that we are into week 7 already of the new year.. Time really does fly. and while I'm doing this life 365, it has helped me cherish the little things more in life and capture those moments that we will be able to cherish for ever. It really has made me stop and smell the roses. This week was valentines day, so it was exciting to do crafts and desserts for valentines day. We colored and made cupcakes. Saturday we hung out at papas house while dad worked n the truck. On valentines day we had to go exchange a few things at the store, and then we came home and had a fantastic family valentine. watched movies and bbq'd and just had a relaxing day at home. and honestly there is no other place i would be. I simply love being with my family and spending time with the ones I love. I got the best cards for valentines day from Marcus and Noah, and I got a willow tree figurine that I absolutely love, and some beautiful flowers. I tell you, I feel like the luckiest girl. A relationship that is full of true love, a healthy family and the time we get to spend with each other is absolutely priceless to me. I am honestly happy and wouldn't have it any other way. Money or material things could never buy this happiness.

February in Life 365

2010-02-12T22:22:00.000-08:00

Last week of January

2010-02-01T22:16:00.000-08:00

Week 3

2010-02-01T16:55:00.000-08:00

I must say I am really really loving this Life 365 project, It is so much fun, and i look forward to Thursdays when I can do my layouts. I figure Noah is growing out of his baby book, so this is going to be awesome to print. I honestly cant wait to see it finished. So here is week 3

A fresh Start..

2010-02-01T16:51:00.001-08:00

The feeling when you get after you get your hair done is amazing. Although I get my hair done once a year, I just love the feeling afterwards. You feel all pampered and beautiful. I chopped over 5 inches off. Whew... it was so much fun, and I always enjoy doing anything different. I'm always up for Whatever.. so take a look at the new hair. and its a little shorter in the back like a A-line cut. I absolutely love everything about it. I love the color and cut. I must say it is super easy to manage as well. What a great way to start a new year.

Making a difference...

2010-01-26T14:51:00.000-08:00

Do you ever get the feeling that you need to make a difference in life. Not for yourself but for those who are less fortunate. Of course I'm not made of money and surely don't have a lot of money at all. But there is something inside me that is itching to help others. I think I've always been that type of person who wants to help others way before I do anything for myself. weather it be my Marcus, Noah or any of my family. Just to see someone happy is one of the biggest joys in my life. I Love the moment when you give someone a present and the moment they open their gift and the joy on their face. I absolutely LOVE that.

So basically what I am getting at is I want to find something that can help people. Maybe a charity or something. I was thinking about making necklaces for Haiti. Something where people can purchase the necklace and 100% of proceeds go to Haiti. I was looking into the UNICEF program and they deal a lot with children for Haiti and the article I read on their website was very eye opening. I do tend to think about what about Haiti's future, their future is in their children, and to have many children that have lost their homes and families is so sad and makes me want to help. I was also thinking about making scarfs for the children in Haiti. Although the weather there isn't cold now, in a few months it will be, and to be prepared for whats ahead is also important.

So I hope that I can help out and maybe this could lead to more charity help in the future. I do look forward to doing some help for others who are less fortunate then I am.

Week 3

2010-01-24T10:42:00.000-08:00

WOW.. week three already...It feels like Christmas was just last week. I haven't really known what to write about lately. I think my brain is MUSH...after all the holidays and trying to get back into the swing of the New Year. We didn't have that great of a start to 2010 as much as I was hoping we would start off the year right. I hope its not a sign to a bad year. The day after Christmas Marcus got a tooth ache. two weeks after having bronchitis. He had to leave work early one day because it hurt so bad. Then our car took a dump..yes a dump.. WE still aren't sure whats wrong with it and have to wait to get it looked at. I just hate car problems. Who saves money just in case there is a car problem..NOT ME..but this definitely taught me a lesson to start saving for the unexpected. So hopefully next week we can find out what is wrong with the car. Thank god for DADS, cause I can call my dad anytime and he always seems to help us out with whatever is going wrong.He let us use his truck while our car is down. It is such a great feeling to know that you have a family that is so supportive and is always there when you need them.

Its been so rainy and gloomy this week. We stayed inside a lot this week. But any chance there was a glimpse of sun we went outside. When Noah would get board I would let him take a bath, some days we took more than 1 bath, just to let him play and do other things then playing in his room and watching cartoons. He loves to take his animals in the bath with him and play. Sometimes when he plays by himself I love to just watch him and listen in to what he is saying. It is so cute. His imagination is so big.

Wednesday I have a job interview. How exciting. I haven't had an interview in FOREVER.. I'm a little nervous, but actually I am pretty excited to get out there and work. I took this semester off of school to look for a job. I think it will help our family out tremendously, and I am kind of excited to have Noah go to school while I work. He ask us everyday if he can go to school, so it will be so nice to have him make friends and be social with other kids. So wish me luck on my interview.

well enough about our crazy everyday life. I hope everyone has a great week, and I cant wait to see what is in store for our future. And lets pray that 2010 can start to get better for us.

week 2 365

2010-01-18T19:07:00.000-08:00

Can you believe we are already going into the third week of January already. Is is my page for 365 week 2. It really is so much fun to do these and I hope I can stay on track with this and I cant wait to have it printed into a book. I found a new company to print books and it is a lot cheaper than the original place i found. the website is called blurp.com. So to whomever reads my blog here's week 2, and i love to see all the stuff we have done even to look back at last weeks layout. so much fun.

Project 365

2010-01-08T19:23:00.000-08:00

Well.. I finally started Project 365, I was and still am super excited to do this and by the end of the year to be able to print it out into a book and it will be a treasure that we can cherish for years to come. Heres to the first week of 365. It actually helps the week go by fast.

Our homemade gift to the grandparents.

2009-12-27T11:50:00.000-08:00

We made this video for the grandparents from Noah. I love making homemade gifts or receiving pictures. A lot happens through out the year, and everyone isnt there all the time for little moments that happen. So i thought why not share it with everyone, and they can get a little glimpse of everyday here an there's through 2009.

No.. I dont want to

2009-12-27T09:42:00.000-08:00

TAKE DOWN CHRISTMAS.....

I love the spirit of Christmas and just the warmth it brings to you everyday to see your Christmas tree on, and all the cheerful decorations up.

We had a wonderful Christmas and we are so blessed with our family and it was a great time to just be able to hang out and relax and have a great time. We enjoyed being surrounded by love and laughter and it was a just all around a great time. We really enjoyed our self.

This year it was so exciting to watch Noah get ready for Christmas. We did a few Christmas crafts, and a lot of cookie baking. It was simply pure joy to watch him Christmas morning open his presents and just be super happy. It was so much fun to have him lay out cookies and milk for Santa, and to hear him talk about the presents that Santa brought him.

Every Christmas since FOREVER...my moms side of the family has Christmas eve, but in 25 years this was the first year that we all didn't get together. Not sure why, but it just didn't happen. Last year I took over the tradition since my grandma passed away and did it at our house in Ripon, but this year our house wasn't big enough for everyone. It really was a sad day for me on Christmas eve. That's all I've known for 25 years is to have the whole family together. I know things change and that's OK, but its something that you look forward to. I hope next year we have a place that is big enough for me to take on the tradition to have everyone at my house. Its not about the gifts or presents. The most important part to me is to carry on the tradition my grandma started and to just be surrounded by loved ones.

Christmas day we had 4 houses to go to, and I loved every minute of it. I was a little hesitant of not being able to spend enough time with everyone since we had many places to be, but that didn't even cross my mind Christmas day. Just to be able to see everyone was just the best thing ever. Life sometimes gets in the way of everyday life and we tend to not see the ones we love the most , so to be able to just see them was amazing. and we had a great time.

Here are some pictures from christmas..

On the 8th day of Christmas..

2009-12-17T13:13:00.000-08:00

On the 8Th day of Christmas..

My true love gave to me..

This amazing Christmas Tree...

I Absolutely love Christmas time, and I'm glad that I have family and friends to share it with. There is nothing like coming home to a house with the Christmas tree on, and the spirit of Christmas throughout your house. I LOVE IT.

On the 9th day of christmas..

2009-12-16T12:43:00.000-08:00

On the 9th day of Christmas..

My true love gave to me..

The Purpose driven Life book. Its a great book for me. We started to go to church, ( well we went twice, but it makes it hard when Marcus works Sunday's and we have one car, so there are Sunday's that we cant make it. ) I do find it nice to open this book and read it everyday. We just started going to a new church and from growing up we never went to church so this is all new to me. This book is really helping figure my purpose for life and it has answered many of my WHY? questions. I still have many more, but it was nice to read in the book that it is OK to have question of Why about God.

One thing that I think about is eternity. I think about my grandmother who passed away and I can only hope that there is eternity and that she is experiencing it now.

One of the main topics that I got from this book is knowing your purpose gives meaning to your life.

I have always been a firm believer in the small things that matter most.

I found a verse that was very true to what I believe.

"unless you are faithful in small matters, you wont be faithful in large ones." Luke 16:10a

Although I am still questioning GOD and everything that I am learning in church, I have hope for myself and my family for today and our future. I think everyone must have hope in their lives because what would you have to live for?

On the 10th day of Christmas...

2009-12-15T12:32:00.000-08:00

On the 10th day of Christmas...

My true love gave to me...

This little man right here. (not so little anymore, but I'm glad I have the memories to look back and enjoy the memories that we have and to think about all the memories to come. He truly is a gift to us, and I wake up every morning thinking how can I cherish this day with him. Sometimes I forget how special it is to be a mother, not everyone can have children, so Its definitely something that I cherish everyday, and try to remind myself how special I am to have this little guy in my life. I am so proud to be his mama.

Trials and Tribulations of Being a Mom...

2009-12-10T20:56:00.000-08:00

Trials and Tribulations of Being a Mom

There is not a day that goes by that I do not worry about my son. And its not a panic or anxiety worry. Its a worry about his future and just daily tribulations that go on. I try to think that I'm not the only mom that goes through this. I constantly worry about Noah's future in education. He is still on the waiting list to get into pre school. We can not afford the 300 a month bill for preschool in our area, so What do we do. I try my hardest to teach him things at home, but honestly I'm not a teacher, and I totally think its different when its your child and my patience runs out fast with him when we do school at home. I just pray that when its time for him to start kindergarten that he will be ready. I enjoy getting together with friends often because I worry that since he is the only child that he might not be up there socially, so I try to get him around other kids as much as possible. He really isn't this sheltered kid or anything, I just want him to have as much contact with other kids as much as possible. I also worry about his future in school alone. How will he enjoy school. As a child I loved school. I hope that he enjoys it as well. I cant wait for him to make close friends and have his friends come over and play and just to see him have other friendships that he developed on his own. I hope that as he gets older we mold him into a young man that is respectable to others, treats girls with respect and goes with the right crowd. Is it normal as a mom to have so many worries? I'm not too sure if its worries or if its just I have so many hopes and dreams for him that I just want to see him succeed and have a happy life. We had a great childhood with tons of memories growing up, and I cant wait for him to experience tons of things growing up. I want him to enjoy his childhood. So many children have to grow up too fast, and I want him to live a great childhood and stay a child as long as he is aloud... His education is very important to Marcus and I and we often talk about what school he will go to. Is it OK for him to go to a public school or should we strive to provide a private school for him. Marcus and I both went to public school and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that, but maybe a private school will give him that little extra that a student needs for their future success. Is it normal that I think about all this when he is only 3? I want Noah to grow up comfortable and be able to endless amounts of activities. Whatever his little heart desires. Well I hope all these are just trials and tribulations of being a mom and being a role model to my child to be able to grow up as a citizen in today's world who is capable and aware that his possibilities are endless for him.

Children Learn What They Live

If a child lives with criticism,
He learns to condemn.

If a child lives with hostility,
He learns to fight.

If a child lives with ridicule,
He learns to be shy.

If a child lives with shame
He learns to feel guilty.

If a child lives with tolerance,
He learns to be patient.

If a child lives with praise,
He learns to appreciate.

If a child lives with encouragement,
He learns confidence.

If a chile lives with fairness,
He learns justice.

If a child lives with security,
He learns to have faith.

If a child lives with approval,
He learns to like himself.

If a child lives with acceptance and friendship,
He learns to find love in the world.

...Dorothy Law Nolte Ph.D.

Its Beginning to look a lot like Christmas

2009-12-08T16:58:00.000-08:00

Its Beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

( My Favorite Christmas Picture. Noah at 7 months old.)

I just love Christmas time. It is absolutely my favorite holiday all year. I don't care for gifts, or look forward to what people are going to get me. I just simply love the smell, atmosphere, the joy and colors that surrounds this time of year. We live in a much smaller place this year then we did last year so we got a cute little tree, and I must say I love it. It is perfect size and looks perfect in our house. We are finished with Noah's Christmas shopping. There are a few things that I need to get but basically he is done. He is so sweet, he was helping me put the Christmas tree up the other day and when it was time for bed he went up to the tree and said good night Christmas and kissed his toy story ornament goodnight. It was definitely the sweetest thing ever. Once we put up the decorations he has been telling Marcus and I "This is the Best Christmas ever." So cute. I have a feeling he is going to be super excited this year. Although my Christmas boxes are still in the living room every thing is up and is super cute. Now my goal is get the boxes out before Christmas. lol...

For basically 18 years my parents wake up Christmas morning and get to watch their kids open presents. I am so anxious and excited for Christmas just to see Noah so happy and excited that Santa came. It makes me kind of sad to see that my parents don't have kids to wake up to in the morning all anxious and excited that Santa came. I really want Noah to stay this age FOREVER... I will be very sad the day that comes and we have no kids jumping at our bed to wake us up and tell us that Santa came, or excited about the presents under the tree.

Can you believe Christmas Eve is in 16 days..OMG

You can shed a tear.

2009-12-07T14:24:00.000-08:00

You can shed tears that she is gone
Or you can smile because she has lived.
You can close your eyes and pray that she will come back
Or you can open your eyes and see all that she has left.

Your heart can be empty because you can't see her
Or you can be full of the love that you shared.
You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday
Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday.
You can remember her and only that she is gone
Or you can cherish her memory and let it live on.
You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back,
Or you can do what she would want:
smile, open your eyes, love and go on.

one year ago today we lost someone very special to us. There is not a day that goes by that I do not think about my grandmother. She was a very special person to me and dear to my heart. Somedays I feel like I could just call and talkto her. She was very compassionate and cared tremendiously for others. I will be happy if I am half the woman she was. We love and miss her dearly.

A great fall day.

2009-12-01T18:54:00.000-08:00

We had a really good day today. Noah has been sick the last two weeks it seems. Nothing major, but a running nose and a cough here and there, but I hate taking him around other kids when his immune system is low. But today we needed to get out of the house and get some fresh air. So we headed to the park. He has such a great time playing. It is still so nerve racking to me to watch him on the play set running around like the older kids. It just shows that he isn't a baby anymore :( . We then went over to the baseball fields, he loves to run the bases. while we were there he told me to go sit down in the bleachers and he was going to run the bases and while he was running the bases he said cheer mommy cheer. It was absolutely the cutest thing ever, so there we were me and him, I was sitting on the bleachers and he was running from home to first base and I was cheering so loud for him and he had the biggest smile on his face. It actually took be to the future and seeing his little toddler body run the bases and just imagining him when he is older playing baseball and we are cheering for him. It was such a great moment in time. after he ran the bases he said it was his time to sit down and my time to run, so I started running the bases and he was cheering me on in the stands it was super adorable. After that we laid down in the outfield and looked at clouds and he was telling me what they look like. It really was too cute for words. So we walked back home before it got dark. I just love days like this.

Classic.

2009-11-30T20:04:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Country Style Elf Yourself

2009-11-30T20:00:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Elf Yourself.

2009-11-30T19:54:00.000-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Project 365

2009-11-29T11:25:00.001-08:00

Is it bad that I'm already thinking about what my new years resolution will be. We haven't even made it into December yet. Well this year I am planning on starting the Project 365 and having it be printed into a book. Along with every other project I'm doing. What you do is take a photo everyday and either post it or in my case I'm going to scrap about it week by week and at the end of the year print it out into a book. I am looking forward to making memories and being able to look back on them when the year is over. here is an example of a scrapbook page. I'm still debating if it should be a project 365 in the life of Noah, or maybe the life of our family. I am super excited to get this started. I tried last year but It didn't really turn out to well. So I'm excited to start it again. Another resolution that I must get done this year is finish Noah's scrapbook. I was going to do a scrapbook for every year he was born, so I'm definitely a little behind d on that one.

I got this example from weeds and wildflowers

Thanksgiving

2009-11-27T17:50:00.000-08:00

We had a great busy day yesterday. The night before thanksgiving, Noah took a late nap, on our way back from the store, so needless to say he was up till past 3 a.m. crazy huh. I think it was 11 when we went to lay down, so I just put on a movie and waited for Marcus to get off. So he got home about 330, and then we finally all went to bed at 4ish. and then had to wake up and start getting ready for thanksgiving. So besides Noah having a cold and running on not a great night sleep, he was defiantly a little crab. Once we got to our families house we had a great time spending it with family and enjoying a great meal with everyone. Its always such a great feeling when you get to just spend the day with your loved ones. Although you might not see everyone everyday, you still have the love and joy in the air and the feeling of love you have for one another, and really know why we should cherish everyone and be thankful that they are in our lives. When it was time to leave Poor Noah did not want to leave my dad. He wanted to go bye bye with his papa. and clung on to him. My dad had to get in our car with him, When we had to leave my sweet son cried and cried for his papa.. aww it was so sad but cute at the same time. After that we headed to Marcus moms, and had a great time over there as well a house full of kids is always a riot. (including Marcus) They all just love him. He is such a great uncle and dad. We had some more food, and a few challenging games on the wii. We didn't get a chance to see my mom, she had to work yesterday. I miss her dearly and hopefully we will get to see her on Sunday. Here are some pictures I want to share from thanksgiving.

My sweet niece Jazmyond, Noah and me

Me Jazzy and Alex

Three Cousins..Lux, Noah and SebastianCutie My niece LuxBest of cousins sebastian and NoahNoah and Sebastians. Typical boys right there.
Cute Boys
Noah Riding the skateboard

Noah and Milly

Marcus is rubbing off on me..

2009-11-24T19:22:00.001-08:00

Well I'm not such a big music fan. Don't get me wrong I like music, but I'm the kinda girl who listens to it to go to sleep, or while I'm doing the dishes. Im not the type of person to run out and get a new cd the minute it comes out. But i do like a lot off different types of music. But one song that I just heard on the AMA's that I really like is The Jay-z and Alicia Keys song.. It makes me want to move to New York..

Def my favorite lyrics:

New York!!!!
Concrete jungle where dreams are made of,
There's nothing you can’t do,
Now you're in New York!!!
These streets will make you feel brand new,
the lights will inspire you,
Let's hear it for New York, New York, New York

hunny lets move to the concrete jungle where dreams are made of..

Today I am thankful for..

2009-11-24T19:17:00.000-08:00

today I am thankful for the drama free life I have. I simply hate drama and everything that comes with it. I like to keep it that way, and not allow people in my life who cause drama for me and my family. I just cant take the life of craziness and hectic day to day drama. So I am thankful today of having a drama free life.

Today I am thankful for...

2009-11-22T09:51:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for the many people who are forgiving in this world. One of the hardest things is to forgive people. I am the hardest person to let things go, so for other people to just forgive I think is something to be thankful for today. I think when people forgive others it helps them out more then it does for the person they are forgiving. Forgiving may not change the past but it does enlarge the future.

Without forgiveness life is governed by...an endless cycle of resentment and retaliation -Robert Assagioli.

Today I am thankful for..

2009-11-20T14:31:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for such a great life. I have everything I need, I have a great spouse, a wonderful son, an encouraging family and we are all healthy and truly happy. We have a great small house and we don't live too crazy over our means, and that is exactly the way I like it. Sometime when you have it all you tend to take things for granted, but with one car and I am able to stay home with Noah I think we definitely live on the modest side, and I love it that way. I am thankful for my life. Sometimes you go through life and you meet people who are truly materialistic, and don't recognize what they have around them. So today I am thankful for everything I have and everyone around me in my life. What a great life.

Today I am thankful for...

2009-11-19T23:57:00.001-08:00

With Thanksgiving around the corner, It makes me think about what I am thankful for and today I am thankful for MARCUS... He is always there for me, He is a great man and a wonderful father. He is my best Friend. He works very hard for us, and we truly get each other. We have been together for 9 years, and He has made my life better everyday. He constantly makes me smile, and I cherish watching his moments with Noah. He is my Peanut butter to my Jelly. He is my rock and my world. There is not everyday that goes by that he doesn't tell me he loves me or gives me a kiss. So today I would like to say that I am thankful for Marcus for being a part of my life and always being there for us.

Greys Anatomy...

2009-11-19T21:47:00.000-08:00

So I take it they will be on hiatus until after the new year, since they totally just ran their one hour show through Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years.. That was a strange episode. So Ive been a little puzzled as to why everyone skipps thanksgiving (store decoration wise) but I guess so do the shows.

Random Post

2009-11-18T20:19:00.000-08:00

Can you believe that Christmas is 36 days away....WHAT!!! where has this year gone. It is definitely my favorite time of year. One thing that I am definitely looking forward to is BLACK FRIDAY.. yes I'm the crazy person who loves black Friday. and I love checking out www.bfadds.com

So Before Christmas there is a Holiday called THANKSGIVING, and I think most people forget about until 2 weeks before it happens. The stores totally skip over it and I already hear Christmas music in the stores. I just love the spirit that it puts me in during this time of the year.

Noah's little attitude lately is so I don't know how to explain it.. I will tell him something and he tells me OK FINE... although we have had good luck with Noah and picking up bad words, the past two weeks he has been a copy cat like crazy. He said the other day while we were at the store "stupid thing," and let me tell you how bad it sounds coming from a toddler let alone an adult. It was the first time it hit me that my son a reflection of me and Marcus. We have always pressed the issue of good manners and behaving in public (were still working on that one). But I look back and hope that I am a great reflection on how my parents raised me, so I hope that I can teach Noah the importance of being respectful and courtesy to others.

All this talk has me thinking about making my Christmas list. I love making homemade gifts. Especially the money it cost to buy for such a big family so I'm excited to get started on that. There are a few more things I need to get for Noah but other than that he is almost done. YAY...

Well that was an eventful post and now were off to bed. Going to MOPS in the morning.

2009-11-16T17:03:00.001-08:00

I'm BAAACCCCKkKK

2009-11-12T17:33:00.000-08:00

Halloween Decorations. Little Spiders out of Egg cartons

So we were down for a little bit without our computer.. Poor thing crashed. You always hear about people loosing everything when their computer crashed thank God, the night before it happened I put most of my photos on my external hardrive. (including all Disneyland pictures) Whew.. There are two files of pictures that I still need to try and get off of the old hardrive and I did loose my photoshop and all my actions. But I can live with that and try to get them again. I'm just glad I still have my pictures.

Noah took a nap yesterday and woke up with a cold. Poor thing it always breaks my heart when he is sick. Marcus is sick also, so I have been playing nurse and getting my boys back and healthy. Marcus is a trooper though and still went to work.

We went to church on Sunday with Marcus brother. To be honest we never grew up going to church so I know absolutely nothing about church nor did I have anything to believe in. I think I just believed in HOPE if that is possible. Marcus went to church and grew up Catholic. unfortunately it turned into just a holiday event. His brother invited us to their church in Lodi at Crossroads/Heartland. and it was a very nice church and we seemed to really like their pastors. It felt very welcoming and opened my eyes to a little something extra out there. You know when you live life day to day and its always the same, I got this feeling of maybe we do need something extra in our life, unfortunately I wasn't sure what it should be. Coming from a background where we didn't go to church I have a lot of questions and whys? I wish someone could sit me down and just tell me everything about God and Jesus Christ from the beginning. I think it would be smart to introduce this background and strong support to Noah as he grows up. I started reading The Purpose Driven Life. and its a book that you read everyday for 40 days that basically tells you why it is important to have a purpose in your life. Alongside the God aspect of the book the whole book has a great story that proves there are more important things in life and for you to have a purpose while you live it. So we shall see how this journey goes and hopefully all my why? can be answered.

Has anyone seen the new Disneyland commercial?

Well this commercial comes on about every other show..and my little Noah watches the commercial then hides his head and starts sobbing EVERY TIME!!! I ask him whats wrong and he said " I want to go to Disneyland." I swear it could break my heart to see him that sad. But I'm happy to know that he loved Disneyland that much. It is honestly the saddest thing to see him cry it made me cry just hearing him cry. I guess that its true when they say its the "Happiest Place on Earth." and it truly is, you forget about all your cares and just enjoy yourself for a few days.

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-28T19:11:00.000-07:00

We went to the pumpkin patch on Sunday, we had a great time. We have been going to Phillip farms for the past 3 years, it was a little different this year, but it was still a great time. Noah and his cousin Lilly had so much fun. It was nice to hang out with them on Sunday. I have some comparison pictures from the past years and its so fun to look back at how much Noah has grown up. I cant wait for Halloween and I'm so glad that it falls on Saturday this year. Usually Marcus has to work so it normally has been just me and Noah but YAY for this year he will get to go with us. Noah is going to be a pirate this year. We borrowed the costume from a friend. I just cant see paying so much for a costume, that he wears one time. When he was in Disneyland he got a pirate treasure box that was basically almost 30.00 so there was his costume. hahhaha.

Lilly and Noah 2009

Noah 2008Noah and Lilly 2007

Noah 2009

Noah 2008Noah 2007

Noah 2009

Noah 2007Noah 2009

Noah and Lilly

Check out that huge turkey..Its real

sometimes we just have to stop and smell the flowers

Happy Halloween and Hope everyone as a great holiday filled Trick and Treats

Disneyland 2009

2009-10-24T17:50:00.000-07:00

Disneyland was amazing. and we had such a great time. Noah was scared to meet the characters, but he was ok with staying far away and saying hi. Every morning he would wake up and the first thing he would say was I wan to go to the castle. It was so adorable. We spent 4 days in Disneyland and I must say with a toddler it was perfect. We had enough time to do everything and the first 3 days we even went back to the hotel early. Noah did exceptionally well. I was very impressed on how he acted. He didn't take naps but he went to bed early. He had one melt down and that was it. When we left on Sunday at 4 am. Noah slept most of the ride there until we hit LA, and the ride home we left early as well and he slept most the way too. It was not busy at all in Disneyland so I think the most we waited was 15 min. although for a toddler that is an eternity but Noah did great. we cant wait to go back again. It was all worth it.

waiting for the fireworks

Trying to pull the sword from the stone

This is what we had to do when he got scared. hahha

His favorite ride. Its a small world. and he sings the song too

another favorite the jungle cruise

Marcus and I on the right on tower of terror. Marcus was soo scared.

Trying to keep him occupied while waiting in line

Day 3

He learned to jump from bed to bed and he would say " to infinity and beyond'

on tarzans tree house for the 5th time

Mickeys house

Nemo submarine ride

When he got his first pair of mickey ears

making his ears

waiting for the pixar parade

He kissed the car before he left

1st day and he was OUT

Getting his first visit button

Whats a girl to do...

2009-10-09T23:08:00.000-07:00

So my friend Sandra and I have been talking about ways to make some extra money. We were thinking about starting our own Little boutique to make money on the side. Especially while I finish school. I have been looking constantly online for things to make. I think it would be a cute idea to have a booth at a fair or our own little store on etsy.com. Although it looks mostly geared toward girl things, I feel like there isn't much boutique things out there for boys.

There are so many things I found that I wish I can make today. but I think first things first. I need to learn how to sew and buy some supplies. (that sure helps) But it would be awesome for us as mothers to do something together, before my grandmother past away we talked about doing crafts together. She was always so crafty and growing up I have so many memories of spending tons of time in her craft room. One thing I wish is I would have had her show me was how to sew.

I cant wait to get into this journey with her. I think it is something I have been looking forward to doing for some time now. So I hope it all works out, and we are successful. I wish I could share some photos of what I was looking at making, but I didn't want to copyright and take any ones photos. So I guess it will just have to wait and see.

I would love to be the mom who could do it ALL... (impossible I know) but I can work on it right.. Hopefully my photography can come into play with it too. and with Sandra's business background and my crafty background we could produce a magic boutique.

My family will probably make fun of me because I try to get into everything.. But my motto "try everything once." and you will find something you love. and right now my love is school, photography, family and creating. So hopefully this will work.

Here's to new ADVENTURES..

*****************************************************

ALMOST TIME FOR DISNEYLAND....
marcus leaves sunday morning for atlanta, comes home thursday, and tons of errands to run on Friday, hair done on saturday and leave on Sunday morning at 5am. ..woo wee.. crazy week ahead.

Date night...

2009-10-04T13:31:00.000-07:00

Well yesterday we went on a date.. I dont think we've been on a date in 3 years. But it was so much fun, and Marcus even got me flowers. It really put a smile on my face. He even set up babysitting and everything.

Today I got out our halloween decorations. I love halloween. We dont have many outside decorations. but it was nice to get everything out. I cant wait to put the stuff up in the house.

I cant believe we are 2 weeks away from leaving on vacation. I am so excited. woo hhooo..

Free Disney Tickers

Steal for a Deal

2009-10-01T14:55:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from our day at the park.

Last Ffriday was homecoming in Linden, Here is Noah and Devin getting ready for the parade.

We went to go get Noah some shoes for winter since all summer he wore flip flops, but while we were there I found some great deals. I love bargain shopping.

I got these jeans from target on Clearance for $6.00.. They are super cute and I actually found them in the boy section rather than the toddler section. Im so glad I can shop there now and find 4t rather than in the baby/toddler section that is very limited on cute clothes especially for boys. see Noah even thinks they are cool.

I got this quicksilver shirt at macys for $3.99.. That was definietly a STEAL..regular price was $28.00, then on top of that we got 15% off our whole purchase.

Then for our disneyland trip I found a great deal at the disney store. 3 shirts for $20.00

They will be perfect for our trip.
My favorite.

Disneyland.. We are planning to go to disneyland October 18th. I think Noah is going to love it and I cannot wait. When I think about how happy he is going to be when we first get there, it just makes me happy and want to cry. His smile on his face will say it all. We are going with my mom, and it is going to be a blast. I havent been to disneyland since Grad night senior year 2002. So I cant wait to experience it with Noah, Marcus and my mom this time. He is very aware of all the disney movies so it will be good that he knows who is who. Every night before bed time, we talk about who we are going to see at disneyland. I cant wait to share pictures with everyone. This is our first Family vacation.. OMG an actual VACATION.. how awesome is that. I think one night when we are there Marcus and I might go on a date to dinner in disneyland or downtown disney. Super excited and glad my mom gets to be there to experience Noahs first trip with us. Iwish all our loving family members could go and be there with us, but we will definietly share pictures with everyone.

headache oh headache...

2009-09-24T14:51:00.000-07:00

Headache oh headache please go away. Today has been a lazy day so far for us. and a crazy week at the same time. Is that possible? Well tomorrow is homecoming for LINDEN. and with such a small town everyone gets involved. So Noah and I will be going to the game tomorrow. I have a test saturday morning, so ive been trying to study as much as possible.
Yesterday Noah asked me ' do boys have babies.' I think my mouth fell to the floor. So I said no girls have babies. And then he proceeded to tell me "cause girls have big boobie" Seriously am i really having this conversation with my three year old. after that conversation he told me cars dont have babies cause they dont talk. I tell you the things that come out of three year olds.
I think we might take a trip to disneyland. (hopefully) We were thinking about going in October. I think its going to be the most exciting time, we never really go on family vacations, maybe just fun things for the day. So I am super excited to see Noahs face the minitue we walk into the park. It will be priceless. I could cry thinking about how happy he would be.
Here are some updated pictures of Noah.

Flash Back Friday

2009-09-11T16:50:00.000-07:00

So once again, here is flashback Friday. I think it has been forever since I did this, but never too late to start over. Of course they are of Noah, I just cant believe the time that has gone by. My baby is 3.. almost 3 1/2 YIKES!!!

Sad moment of my week: My name is no longer Mommy..can I tell you how sad that makes me. Noah now calls me MOM... awww where has my baby gone. even though its nice to look back, I simply enjoy every minute of him at this stage. He says the funniest things and sometimes I have no clue where he gets it from. Sometimes Noah will try to fix something for me and then he says ' good as new' That is so funny hearing that from a 3 year old.

He wrestles a lot with Marcus, and he always says " you want a piece of me" oh my...secretly it is funny.

In this picture was the day that he learned to stand up all by himself without holding on to anything. He hated the grass so he basically made himself stand up. hahah He is so sweet.

I would like to introduce you to...

2009-09-03T16:20:00.000-07:00

Myself... I think its been another long break from blogging, and thought that I would finally sit down and write some things about what has been going on.

Well, in a nutshell things are going good. Noah is registered for pre school we just have to wait for there to be an opening. I am so excited for him to make friends, and learn new things. He is getting so big and growing so much lately. I just cant believe my baby is 3 already. and I know when he is 18, I'm going to think back to when he was this age and realise that time goes by way to fast. We have been working on our alphabet lately, and learning the sounds of every letter. I figured if we do one a day in 26 days he will know the whole alphabet by recognizing the letter and the sounds they make. (maybe)
So i know that Noah is only three, but he is just in love with GIRLS.. I have no clue where he gets it from. He came to me the other day and out of nowhere said 'mommy, i love to kiss girls." WHAT!!! hes not 16 , my baby is only 3.

Lately he has really been into dinosaurs and he knows the names of each dinosaur. Its simply amazing to me. He also loves to sing, and dance.. Sometimes he tells me to close my eyes so I don't look at him ( he must get embarrassed, but it is so cute.) His favorite song to sing is 'you are my sunshine. '

Marcus has been on two business trips in the past couple months he recently went to Philadelphia. and it is such a great experience for him. While he was in Philadelphia, I redid the living room for him, and it was a surprise for him when we got back. Let me tell you it was definitely an experience to do it with Noah here. I had to take naps during the day to stay up at night and paint so Noah wasn't around the fumes. I blew up some pictures and hung them on the wall. (finally) It now feels like our HOME.

well for me school has started again. It was nice to take the summer off, but I am glad to be back into the swing of things. I am still up in the air about my future. not my career choice but I'm still wavering the options of staying with MJC for the nursing program or transferring to a uc. Just for personal reasons I would much rather graduate from a uc rather than a jc, but in the end its all the same outcome. So my options are up in the air. I'm continuing to work on both, so that when the time comes I can just go forward.

Well I hope everyone is doing well, and things are going good. hopefully this wont be the last post, and I start getting into teh swing of this things again.

2009-07-07T23:29:00.001-07:00

Well not to make any excuses or anything butni didn't run today. Yesterday I took a nap with Noah and had a pepsi way too late so needless to say I didn't go to sleep till almost 4 in the morning. I hate that. So by the time I feel like going for my run tonight it was already almost ten. And that wouldn't be safe to do it by myself.
I downloaded this app for my phone that maps my runs and keeps track of my exercise and what I eat and weight. It is very handy. I just hope I can get motivated to run at an earlier time. Since I'm going to be by myself I really can't run alone at night time. So I have to at least do it before dinner. I did eat breakfast today. But I had a late lunch a round 4. Butni ate a smart one and then had a grilled cheese sandwich for dinner.

2009-07-07T00:49:00.001-07:00

Ok ok. So tomorrow or today actually I'm starting my couch to 5k training. I downloaded the music and got the stroller. So no excuse what so ever. It may be hard at first but my ultimate goal is to loose weight and To run in the 5k at Disneyland. Me and a friend from school are going to keep accountable for each other and be there to support each other. It is definetly nice to have another mom out there to go on this journey with. The couch to 5k calls for exercise 3 times a week every other day. I love going for walks so hopefully this is something I can keep up with. It's not so much eating better it's just I need to eat at the right times. I can go all day and not be hungry till. 3 or 4. And that is bad. So my other goal is to work on eating breakfast as well. So my running will start tomorrow and maybe walk in between those days. So Tuesday. Thursday. Saturday. I will run. And inbetween those days I will walk. My stroller has a iPod hookup with speakers so it is fun to listen to music while running and not having those ear phones stuck in my ear. Well wish me luck it all begins tomorrow. Here we go shannon.

In CASE you care!!!!

2009-07-02T20:19:00.000-07:00

My case to my phone. I just love this color green. and hopefully I get it soon. I am really impatient..

Sent from my iPhone

2009-06-30T00:59:00.001-07:00

So....here goes my first post coming straight from My phone. This thing is so handy and awesome. I think it will be much easier to blog this way then getting on the computer. Here's to great technology.

Baby switch has turned OFF...

2009-06-25T23:04:00.000-07:00

Wow.. It has been a long time since I've written a post, but we have been busy busy busy.. and I just haven't thought about writing anything down. Well from my last post, a lot has changed in terms of my baby.. frankly hes not a baby anymore.. I don't know if this is going to jinx's me so I'm going to knock on wood.

He really doesn't have many tantrums anymore... He tries to wine about things, but I'm kinda over that too, and he just goes to time out when he gets in trouble or talks back. He has totally changed in the last month, he has such great manners, he always says no thank you when he doesn't want something, it so cute. and he always tells me and Marcus I love you... So much. its super sweet. I wish I could bottle it up and keep it forever.

He has stopped hitting, and being mean to others, we have some great friends that we always hang out with and FINALLY he is starting to play and share. He loves it. and I love it too it makes things so much easier. He has an occasional hit here or there, but for the most part he is becoming such a little man and I love it.

His imagination has grown so much it is fascinating to watch and listen too him. He always tells me ok mamma doggy, or mamma bear, or mamma dragon.. and I always say ok baby ( whatever animal I am to him) I just love it.

He recently had his 3 year check up and didn't need shots so that was good, we were fighting off a cold anyways, so it all worked out. But were over the sickness and everything is good.

Since summer is here he has been swimming at my parents' houses' and he loves it. Last year I was afraid to let go of him even with a life jacket, but this year I thought he would be old enough to try it on his own, so I got him floaties, and he does great swimming around the pool by himself. He loves to swim.. and do anything that is outdoors.

Were still debating on preschool for this year. next year it is a FOR SURE thing, but this year, I might just work with him at home, here in linden they told me at head start that he has to be a migrant or farm workers son...(don't get that) and the other preschool is 100.00 a month not bad but I would have to work there twice a month and he would go twice a week for 2 hours. (uh.. not to sure what 2 hours would do) and the other one is almost 400 a month, so that is out of the question for right now. They just make it almost impossible and not worth it. But i know how important it is to get a great start on education but I think 1 year of preschool will be great for him.

so... There it is in a nutshell what has been going on. Everyday is a new adventure with him, and to listen to things he learns that I have no idea where they came from .. is just amazing... Like he knows that a rope is to lasso..He says be quiet (rather than shut up thank got) I hate when people say shut up to other people.. just my pet peeve. He is so kind to animals and all creatures.

Noah came running to me in the living room and said he kissed her... and I was like " WHAT" and he said "he kissed her come here.".. and this is what he showed me... OH MAN.. I just had to take a picture of it.

He loves baseball, anything to do with it he loves. We recently bought him a tee and bat, and its his favorite thing to do. He sometimes plays with the little kid next door who is 5 and he does pretty good. A while back we went to the park and there was a t-ball team practicing, and he kept saying I wanna play too.. PLEASE!! It was a struggle to keep him away from their practice.

So take a good look y'all The next BARRY BONDS.. (without the drugs)

One of those days!!!

2009-06-05T22:24:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have one of those days as a mom where you question if your doing everything right. I know there is no manual to parenting, but sometimes I wish there was. Today was just simply a hard day and my patience was and (still is) thinning. This week, has been good, but today has just been overwhelming. Noah has been acting up all day, I don't know when he is going to get the clue that hitting and being mean is not the way to act. Spanking, time-out, yelling, it just hasn't been working. He is so mean to everyone who comes over, just toward adults though, or older people I should say. but like for instance every time my aunt comes over he says go home, go bye-bye. and If she tries to give him a hug or anything he doesn't like it. and to be honest the only person other than me and Marcus that he likes is my DAD. I'm not really sure why, I don't know if its because he doesn't ever go with anyone, or no one really asked to babysit him or take him for the day. So honestly he has never stayed the night anywhere and doesn't often get babysat. that is possibly the only reason I can see why he is the way he is. Its just so embarrassing because He is so mean. (i could just cry right now, its just one of those days. ) Me and Marcus really haven't spent time together all week, I have been working with my step mom and aunt, so when I get home at 230, Marcus has about 5-10 min. and then he leaves for work. And by the time he gets home its 2-2:30 in the morning and were asleep. So this week has been one hell of a ride, lets just say that! I always get the comments, oh he needs a brother or sister, but you know were just not ready right now for another kid. Financially or mentally. Why would I want to be one of those people, who have kids and shouldn't. So I think I'm being responsible to not have any kids right now, just because Noah needs a child to play with. I try to have play dates with him, and do things through the week and weekends that are fun for him. I just feel today like I'm stuck in between a rock and a hard place with him. I really don't want him to be a rude kid, or mean, but what do I do to get him to not be like that. It is a daily battle with myself if I am doing the right thing. He is not a terrible kid, He is so funny, but I just hit one of those days that I am struggling with. Hopefully a good nights rest, and sweet dreams will get me through this funk of a day... Hoping for a better tomorrow.

California Dreamin..NOT SO MUCH..

2009-06-04T13:25:00.000-07:00

So, I've grown up in California my whole life. Born in Stockton (one of the USA highest crime rated cities.) I hate that town. Lived in Ripon growing up, and I love that little town , it is so nice and quiet, it is growing, but they continue to keep that small town feel. But I am just so over California right now... I have been going back and forth about our future as a family a lot. and within the next 2 years, we want to buy a house, and have things settled for Noah to start school, and start our roots as a family in a home with our careers. Unfortunately it just seems like in California to have something nice to what you want is definitely going to cost you an arm and a leg and still not be fully satisfied. but thats just me, may not be that way for others.

Me and Marcus were watching a show the other day on HGTV and they were house hunting in GEORGIA, and Marcus just got back from a trip in Atlanta, and he was telling me about the houses there, and OMG I could not believe how cheap things are there.

So I was thinking, Is California the right place to be for our future. Could Georgia, or any other state be an open path for a better future for our family financial wise.

Now, NOW .. I'm not saying were moving, or if I even want to , it just makes me realize here in CALIFORNIA your basically screwed on housing in a nice area. You have to take a lot into consideration, schooling, crime ETC.. When we decide to buy a house, I don't want to just settle for an O.K. house, I want to buy a house that I love... and not pay an outrageous amount of money for. so here are some comparisons from other states compared to Ripon, or California...

Makes me really think how hard would it be though to live out of state? and the only reason Im looking in Georgia, is because Marcus' jobs corpportate office is there. and that would be ideal.

McDonough..Tope 10 cities in Georgia

House #1

For Sale: $160,490

New Build

Single family
4 beds
3.0 bath
2,238 sqft

House#2

For Sale: $189,460

New Build

Single family
4 beds
3.0 bath
3,217 sqft

Now lets look in good ol Ripon..

House#1

For Sale: $399,000

New Build

Seller Facts:

3 beds
4.0 bath
2,247 sqft

House # 2

$393,000

4 beds
3.0 bath
2,748 sqft
Lot 14,374 sqft
Built in 2003

As you can see the comparison, is crazy... Its almost no comparisson at all, You can get a much better house in Georgia then you can afford here in california. The houses in georgia would definitely sell for 500-600 thousand here in CAli. I would hate to pay over 250' for my house, in california and in the back of your head you will always know what you can get somewhere else. But like I said not everyone is like me, I just couldnt see spending so much for a hosue here, when you can get so much somewhere else.

Say it Aint so Saturday!

2009-05-30T11:32:00.000-07:00

I was going to post a crazy picture on today's post, but I really didn't want to put any on here but check out what I was talking about. It cracks me up because its so unbelievable.!!!

http://whythefuckdoyouhaveakid.com

FlashBack Friday (on saturday)

2009-05-30T10:33:00.000-07:00

1st. Birthday

2nd Birthday

3rd Birthday

So, to back step a little bit, I have been wanting to do this post but just haven't got to it yet till now. So Noah's birthday was on the 18th, and he turned 3.. I seriously cannot believe where the time has gone. 3 years ago I was sent to the hospital straight from the doctors office, because I had too much protein in my urine. Mind you I was at my 8 Month check up. Still 1 Month to go. After being in the hospital for 2 days they decided that I would have to be admitted to a labor room, and in the morning they would induce my labor.. Lets just say I was so scared.. my son would be a month early. I had preclampsia, and low amniotic fluid, so it was by far safer for Noah to come out then for him to stay in. But they gave me this thing called cervadel that night, and moved me to the labor room, and in the morning I would start potossin. Well, the cervadel put me into labor about 2 hours after they administered it. When I was pregnant I think I read every book possible, and watched every baby show on tv. and this was not going the way I had thought. I went into full labor from the beginning, a contraction every minute. directly from the start. No working up to it, or a contraction every 5 min or so, NO every minute. So finally my water broke, and then they checked me and I was still at a 1 cm. So, about 330 a.m. rolls around and after having a contraction every minute for 8 hours, I was not progressing so the dr. had to do a c-section, because Noah started to get stressed from everything. Among other things I had Noah at St. Josephs, and they don't believe in epidurals, so the pain meds, were not cutting it. So there I am on the operating table, and the anesthesiologist is giving me a spinal tap, while im having contractions at the same time...DUM..Dum...Dum... FINALLY after 3 days in the hospital, My little man was born at 5lbs 13 oz 191/2 inches long at 4:10 a.m. He had to go to the nicu, since he was born early, but once I got out of recovery and into my room in the morning, he was able to come with me. I was still there for another 3 days from the c section, and I was so ready to GO home...

I have nothing but high hopes for his future, and I just want him to know that we love him unconditionally, and he is the light of my life. He is the reason I want to strive for better. I want to provide him with nothing but the best.

Here are some amazing pictures from the last 3 years. I cherish this little man, and he is my world.

Work-Out Wednesday!

2009-05-27T22:24:00.000-07:00

DOES CLEANING THE HOUSE ALL DAY COUNT!

Backup...once again

2009-05-26T09:10:00.000-07:00

What a crazy weekend. On Saturday we had a party for Noah. It was very small, and simple, and just family. but we had the part at 6 p.m. and I must say I think I might do that every year. We had all day to get ready, and not rush, and then people only stayed until 8ish. so it was fantastic. But I was sad that there was no left overs. We watched ufc that night. and then the next day had to do some major cleaning up, and grocery shopping (word to the wise) don't go grocery shopping when you have ran out of everything in your house. this results in a 200.00 grocery bill.. AHHHH!!! We stayed up so late on Saturday, until 3 in the morning, maybe later, so Sunday we were so lazy and tired. Then yesterday there wasn't really much going on, so we went to a friends house but not until 7 p.m. but earlier in the day we went to the school so Noah could play at the playground.

I have a little tiff with the town I live in. The town is very small, but not considered a super small town I guess. It has 2 grocery stores a High school an elementary school and stop signs, a gas station, and a main street with business'.. but NO FREAKING PARK...none what so ever. not even a place with just grass. So when I want to take Noah to the park, I have to take him to the school, but cant go when school is in session, so what is the point. Maybe I should take this up to the city council, (if Linden even has one)

mmm...mmm...Monday

INGREDIENTS

4 English muffins, split
1/2 cup canned pizza sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
16 slices pepperoni sausage

DIRECTIONS

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
Place the English muffin halves cut side up onto a baking sheet. Spoon some of the pizza sauce onto each one. Top with mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices.
Bake for 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the Cheese is melted and browned on the edges.

Tempting Tuesday...

I AM TEMPTED TO BUY THIS BIKE. i WANT A BEACH CRUISER. SOOO BAD (BIRTHDAY PRESENT MAYBE)

How true is this picture!!

2009-05-26T01:41:00.000-07:00

REWIND!!

2009-05-23T00:03:00.000-07:00

So, its been a week since I posted, but I have been BUSY!!! Tomorrow is Noah's party. Nothing big we are actually only inviting family, and its at 6 in the evening. We didn't want some big thing or something over the top, so just cousins will be here to play with Noah. but what better way to spend the day then with your family. I will post pictures.

I wanted to do a farm theme, and thought that it wouldn't be that hard to find stuff for it, well I went to the party store to get 2 table clothes. We aren't even having tables (that's how small it will be) One table for the presents and cake and the other for food. But unfortunately the party place did not have anything farm animal. They had the jungle, but it was quite cheep looking, so I went with Madagascar table cloths.

Then I didn't order the cake in time, so I went to Costco, since they aways have them there pre made, and of course I had 2 to choose from, One baseball one, and the other was a carrot cake. NO THANK YOU. so I just went with the baseball cake.

Then I made the treat toppers already with a sheep on them, so we are having a cultural party, baseball, Madagascar, and farm theme.

OK, so now is the time for the rewind:

mm.mm. Monday

These are so simple and delicious. I got the recipe from thepioneerwoman.com

Club Crackers
Thin Sliced Bacon
Grated Parmesan Cheese

Directions:
1. Lay the club crackers on a cookie sheet, as many as you want to make.
2. Scoop 1 tsp. of Parmesan Cheese onto each cracker
3. Cut bacon package in half
4.Carefully wrap the bacon around the cracker and make sure the cheese doesn't fall off the cracker.
5. Place in oven at 250 for about 2 hrs.

Ta-Dah

Tempting Tuesday!I was tempted this week by sleep, It was on my mind 24/7. I didn't get much this week. On Wed. my son didn't take a nap, (nothing new) but on our way home from my moms it was 8 he fell asleep (YAY for me) so I thought OK its late enough he could stay asleep..but he woke up as soon as we got home, and stayed awake again until 11:30p.m. (mind you he was only asleep in the car for MAYBE 10 min. ) Then he woke up at 4:00 in the morning. and he was trying every excuse to get out of bed. He wanted to wash his hands, brush his teeth.. It was crazy and my patience was running out. I also worked Thursday and had to be up Early. and in Ripon by 8. So needless to say I was not a happy camper.

Work-out Wednesday.

Non existent still.. I have been walking a couple days this past week, but not weight watchers yet, there was a lot going on this week, and frankly, I would have to pick Marcus up from work at 1 a.m so That is not too appealing to me lately.

Thousand Words Thursday:

Finally We were able to play in the pool. YAY!! HE was so excited.

Flashback Friday: Its a hard one.

So, Its been 5 months almost 6, since my grandma has past away. and I think about her almost everyday. Last year she was in the hospital when Noah had his party, and this year she is not with us. But there is not a day that goes by that I don't think about her, and I miss her dearly. Sometimes I find myself, just wanting to call her. She was such a great woman, and it saddens me that she is no longer with us, she was so young. One thing I wish would be that Noah would remember her, but with pictures like this I will be able to show him what a great woman she was. I still find it hard to believe that she is gone. Miss you and love you.

Flashback Friday

2009-05-15T22:01:00.000-07:00

With Noah's birthday on Monday, I thought this would be a great flashback Friday Picture.

3 Months Old

P.S. You gotta love the "What to expect the first year" book, in the background!"That was my bible.

Bag Toppers

2009-05-15T21:40:00.000-07:00

So, I made Noah's party bag toppers, We are doing a farm theme. He loves animals, so I made these this year. I think they turned out cute, and so simple. and adds that little extra touch to the party. and all you need is a Ziploc baggy or generic dollar store baggies that I buy. Then I just make them into a 4x6 and print them to Costco, and all you do is fold them in half and staple them to the Ziploc baggie with the themed goodies inside.

Thousand words Thursday

2009-05-14T21:33:00.000-07:00

Funny..

2009-05-13T23:59:00.000-07:00

This was on my yahoo homepage today..Perfect

Work -out-Wednesday (not so much)

2009-05-13T22:20:00.000-07:00

So, Like I said in my previous post, Wednesdays I would talk about my work out and weight watchers INFO.. but unfortunately my monthly (you know what) Came today.. So with the monthly pain that is a monthly reminder of labor, I was not in the mood for anything. I did manage to eat a banana for breakfast, which is a big deal for me. I normally don't eat breakfast EVER..So maybe next work out Wednesday I will have more exciting info for you all.

Within the same topic, lets talk about biggest loser.. BOOOO.. I was really rooting for Tara. Although Helen did a great job, I think she looked very old and TOO skinny. I think I can compare myself with Tara from before she lost the weight, so, I hope one day to be like Tara now.

Tempting Tuesday..

2009-05-12T22:22:00.000-07:00

So today.. I was tempted by:

But I did not give in to temptation, and ate this:

Mmm..Mmmm.. Monday

2009-05-11T22:11:00.000-07:00

Beans and Cornbread:

So, My great Friend referred me to this website.. thepioneerwoman.com, and she has amazing recipies, and I am going to make this one tomorrow.

Embarrassing tid-bit: I use to hate pinto beans.. I mean Hate them, because unfortunately the only time I had them was when I would order a burrito from taco bell and there woud be a burnt whole bean in there, so I always thought, GROSS, they tast nasty. hehehe (go ahead you can laugh at me if you want) Well then I went to this taqueria in Ripon, and they had amazing pinto beans, simply delicious, so I fell in love with Pinto beans.. So much flavor. Lets hope mine turn out.

Check out her website, she has tonsof recipies that I woud love to try, and I think this lady does it all too!

All about Blogging.

2009-05-11T15:04:00.000-07:00

So, I have been thinking about things to blog about, and things to keep me motivated to blog. So here are a few things I want to do..

Mmm..Mmm..Monday's : I will try to post a recipe that I use or want to try.

Tempting Tuesday: I would like to share what I want, craving or I am tempted by. (that should be fun)

Work out Wednesday: So Wed. I am starting weight watchers with my mom, so I will talk about my exercise for the week and my goals and what I did at weight watchers.

Thousand words Thursday: A Picture that explains a thousand words in one moment.

Flashback Friday: So here is where I will have a flashback of some sort, from me, or family or Noah or whatever.

Sat and Sunday: Random

I ♥ Faces

2009-05-10T22:23:00.000-07:00

♥ So this weeks Photo Challenge is "Laughter"♥

So, This is my first time submitting a photo to this contest, and I really enjoy that you can submit a photo just being an amateur photographer.

In this photo we were at the pumpkin patch, and after a long day of walking around in the heat, Noah got the giggles and everything was funny. That was a memory for the books. Also this was the first time I tried a B&W tutorial rather than just hitting convert to B&W. I think it turned out so much better. Still learning though.

Go over to I heart Faces blog, and check out all the other great photos, Laughter is the best medicine I think, especially from a child.

2009-05-07T15:55:00.000-07:00

Countdown Till my family is complete!

Mothers day Plans

2009-05-07T11:17:00.000-07:00

Marcus gets back from Atlanta on Friday night, but we might celebrate Mothers Day on Saturday, and go visit our mothers on Sunday. Well I really want to go to the zoo in Oakland and eat dinner at the rain forest cafe on the pier. It will be nice to just spend the day with my family. I hope it works out.

Thousand words Thursday

2009-05-07T11:07:00.000-07:00

So I must say, I'm on a roll with this blogging thing. Maybe because I have a lot of time now with school being over, and Marcus is out of town for work, and I'm not working this week. Well here is my picture for thousand words Thursday.enjoy!

Noah's Birthday!

2009-05-05T09:23:00.000-07:00

So, I'm still having trouble deciding what to do for Noah for his birthday. HELP PLEASE! We were thinking about just going down to the local pizza place and reserving the room there and just doing pizza, Then we were thinking about having it at home to BBQ, or at a park. But then I was also thinking to do something low key this year, and just do cake and ice cream at home with family and maybe take him to six flags or to Monterey bay aquarium. Still up in the air, and usually I'm on the ball with this kind of thing, but I'm slacking this year. Any suggestions?

Happy Mothers Day..

2009-05-04T12:30:00.000-07:00

Sunday is Mothers Day and it makes it my 3rd mothers day since Noah was born. I am so blessed to be his mother. He did not ask to come into this world, so as his mother I feel joy everyday to know that he is happy and healthy. He has everything he could ask for, and more. He has a loving family, and friends who love him just as he was their own. I don't think mothers day should be about ONE day for you as a mother, and to be showered with gifts. I think everyday of the year is a gift for me to have my child. Some woman never get the chance to even become a mother, so why would I just want to emphasize the greatness of being a mom just on ONE day. Maybe I'm just a simple kind of person, and don't like all the hoopla about things like that, but being a mother is the best thing that has ever happened to me. Once you have children, you kind of get this perspective on your own parents and the things they did to protect you or to help you when you were younger. Being a child you never really get it, I think, until you have children of your own. Happy mothers day to my MOM, I love you more than you know, and I am totally grateful for all that you do for us. You are a hardworking, sweet, caring, loving mother, and I couldn't ask for anything better. We all love you and hope that you have a great day on Sunday. You deserve nothing but the best.

Here is a new video from Taylor Swift to her mom and I just thought it was the sweetest song ever.

Hello Mr. Lincoln

2009-05-01T23:11:00.000-07:00

So, I have decided. I want to start collecting Pennies. Yes you heard it PENNIES. I think they are the most monetary idem that people just throw away or shove in a drawer. I want to collect them, so I think everyone, should shed some penny weight and donate them to my collection. I know strange but I think a lot of people just want to get rid of the penny altogether, so why not, give them to me. SO go through your drawers, and save those non sense things, and donate them to me. Contact me to donate today!!!

Where have we been!!!

2009-04-27T09:50:00.000-07:00

I'm Here...I'm Here... So here goes another month down the drain with no post, but I would like to say that I have a good excuse..but unfortunately life just got in the way. Does that ever happen to anyone else? But a lot has changed in this past month. We moved back to linden, a much smaller community than Ripon, Linden only has one (main) stop sign, if that is the best way to describe it..(ok maybe 3 at the most) We just really wanted to move to get something cheaper, and the monthly stress of are we gonna make our rent or not? was just taking a toll on me. We were paying a lot, so with school full time, and hopefully the nursing program within a year or so, We will be saving over 500 a month just in rent. So it was a helpful move. I love the new place we live in, its very charming and old. and I really love that. It has real hardwood floor throughout the house, and its is actually a perfect size for just us 3. Its not updated or anything, and its old, But like I said I love that type of charm in a house.

I cannot find my camera battery charger. and if some of you know, my camera to me is like a model with makeup, I miss it, I didnt even have it on easter to take pictures, and all I can think about is I will have no pictures to do this years scrapbook pages, and what will noah have to look at when he gets oder. LOL crazy I know, but I just cant find where I packed it. I really dont want to buy another cannon battery charger, I really am not sure how much they cost.

pre-school update:
So I caled all 4 pre schools here in Linden, and let me tell you I just dont get it.

School#1- Its a co-op school and for 100.00 a month, (we could handle that) but its 2 days a week for 2 hours..and I have to work there twice a month.. What the hel is up with that. I have no problem workign there, but to have noah go for ony 2 hours. I want him to have the experience of being with other kids. (and I want a brake, but frankly that is not a brake for me, I couldnt even go to the store and back in time to get him)

School#2- 2 days a week for 3 hours a day for 250 a month. I understand that this is very important and I think every kid needs pre school, but can we really afford 250 a month for preschool twice a week..very questionable.

School#3- Headstart- I went into the school, and they tood me they are ony taking migrant or immagrant children..(thats what the lady told me) WTH!!! somethings wrong here.

School #4- They are closing down at the end of May.. ( sad)

So were still waving the options, and trying to figure out what is best.

This week is the last week of the semester, so I have my finals this week..BIG ORDEAL.. but im taking the summer off, and cant wait to not have school, always on the back of my mind.

well I hope I updated everyone to the fullest, and hope everyone had a great easter.

Digi Scrap..

2009-03-23T11:00:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to finish Noah's scrapbook, so I can send it off to be printed... so here are some pages that I have made recently

Time for Change...

2009-03-23T10:06:00.000-07:00

Well, Here's another long awaited post. A lot has been going on. Busy as every. some updates: Noah got his cast off. YEAH...its been about 3 weeks since he got it off maybe 4, but I still hear about it everyday.. It was a traumatic incident for him.

Update#2 Were moving. We just cannot afford it no longer, and its not fair to my dad if we cant pay our rent, and with school, its going to make it a lot easier. If I wont be able to work while in the nursing program, then we wont be hard up for money. It was becoming stressful every month. I know people go through hard times, but I would rather fix the problem now, then possibly get depressed over the situation. So we made a change. I guess that's Life.

Update#3 School has been going really well, I have been trying so hard to get a good grade in English, and FINALLY I got an A on one of my essays. Every week we have a essay that is due. and so far I got all B's except one A. YEAh!!!

Update#4 Noah is officially potty trained. (I think). He has grown up this last month. I'm kinda sad about it. He is no longer my baby. I'm still nervous to take him in pubic without a diaper, but I do it, and just monitor his iquid intake. He goes to the potty all by himself without even telling us, and he even washes his hands by himself, although we have to re wash them, I let him do it himself first so he knows that he can do it. He is just the biggest little man.

Update#5 Go Diego Go!!! so we have cable now.. WHOO HOO..and noah loves his animals, well we have discovered the love of GO DIEGO GO.. its all about animals. And noah can sing the whole beinging song. Its so cute.

Update#6 Marcus is great, still working, and with the ecomoy now days, we can ony thank god that they are still open. Although his shifts have changed and modified, he is doing a great job, and he works so hard for his famiy. Thank God he is on salary.

So all in all things have been crazy, and just living every day as it comes. Family is happy and healthy, and we love our life and just simply hanging out with each other.

Before
After ( He was so brave)
We stopped at a dairy on the side of the road, Noah was so facinated.
Almond BLossom Carnival

Noah and adri, and the Ripon Beach..(volleyball courts)